Checking In on K Street

It’s been a while since we shared progress on our K Street project, and while we’ve shared updates on Instagram, the journal posts have been quiet. With six weeks (ish) left in construction, it felt like the right time to offer a peek. This brownstone renovation leans into classic architecture and timeless materials—always our favorite combination. We reconfigured the layout for modern living, but the details honor the home’s early-1900s roots. As historic home designers, we’re always balancing restoration and reinvention.

Custom Millwork in the Right Places

Throughout the home, we designed custom millwork that brings depth and proportion, installing it selectively to manage budget. In the primary bedroom, the paneling aligns with a king-sized bed and spans the entire room. It’s currently primed, but you can already feel the presence it brings to the space. In the front hall, a jib door (hidden hinges, hidden hardware) hides a coat closet within a clean, geometric panel layout. We carefully aligned every reveal and joint (math major over here). The millwork continues up the stair and wraps the corridor outside the primary bedroom. This brownstone renovation gave us the chance to elevate key spaces with simple millwork—without overbuilding.

Scandinavian White Oak Floors

Our clients loved the simplicity of Scandinavian white oak. Scandinavian white oak, to us, refers less to a specific species of oak and more to a treatment and aesthetic rooted in Scandinavian design principles. It typically means white oak that’s been lightly finished—often with a clear matte oil, a subtle whitewash, or a soft liming wax—to preserve its natural grain while toning down yellow or amber undertones. The goal is to keep it looking pale, neutral, and organic.

To make the budget work, we used different sizes throughout the house. Seven-inch planks appear in the top-floor guest rooms and basement. Ten-inch planks run through the primary level. On the main floor, we laid a herringbone pattern—elevating the most public spaces. Every board will get the same stain, but the layout signals each room’s importance. We tested several soaped finishes, from traditional to low-maintenance alternatives, and ultimately chose a formula from WOCA.

Classic Tile Flooring

Tile played just as important a role as wood. In the powder room, we chose a large checkerboard pattern—bold, graphic, and classic. In the guest bath, a basketweave from Ann Sacks gives subtle British charm, a variation on the standard basketweave you would find at a big box store. The primary bath uses small white marble mosaic tile with a rough cut pattern. The pattern feels modern, but the carrerra material keeps it ‘traditional.’

Old Fireplaces, New Function

We love restoring old hearths, few details feel more special in a historic home. We salvaged two original fireplaces from the home and planned for their reuse; one in the living room and another for the primary bedroom. Below, a white marble number anchors the formal living room. At each side, we installed arched niches and white oak floating shelves; these will be stained to match the flooring. The fireplace itself features a clean marble surround and will have a new gas insert. It’s safe for kiddos, realistic, and throws real heat—ideal for Boston winters.

Classic Proportions in the Kitchen

This kitchen pairs quiet materials with classic proportions. The island is natural white oak, left raw to coordinate with the soaped floors. Along the perimeter, dark navy inset cabinets add contrast. One tall cabinet opens to reveal a hidden coffee station, with pocket doors that disappear when in use. We also added floor-to-ceiling windows and doors; one set opens to a deck, while the other—non-operable—creates balance and symmetry. From inside or out, the composition feels intentional (scroll for exterior photos).

Primary and Guest Bath Highlights

In the primary bath, we combined natural and refined materials. The walls are waterproof plaster, and the white oak vanity floats off the wall. Above, thick marble slabs create a counter, apron front, and backsplash for wall-mounted fixtures. In the guest bath, we played with color; a yellow vanity is Farrow & Ball Saffron. The tub is painted a custom color (black), and stacked green wall tile feel lively without going overboard.

Basement Living with Natural Light

In the basement, we prioritized natural light wherever possible. The home gym includes a custom interior window facing the stair. This opening allows light to pass through and brightens the entire level. A floating shelf holds towels, weights, and yoga gear—simple, functional storage. Adjacent to the gym, the media room opens to a bluestone patio through floor-to-ceiling doors. Deep blue cabinetry wraps one wall. Before-and-after photos show how much a coat of paint can transform.

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The laundry room includes white cabinets and light green walls, paired with zellige floor tile. In the home office, we kept things tonal. Walls and ceilings are the same color, and a modern Flower Pot pendant from &Tradition finishes the space. Outside, the patio includes storage, planting beds, and steps that rise to the backyard. Symmetry and balance define the rear elevation, with new doors and windows bringing order to the back facade.

Looking Ahead

This brownstone renovation reflects the layered sensibilities of everyone involved—two homeowners, one architect, the builder, and our team. Final photos are coming soon, but we’re already proud of the result. The lighting is a mix of modern and traditional, and will be finalized in a couple weeks. The furniture leans minimalist ,the drapery will be soft and simple. Part Boston brownstone, part classic British townhome, part Scandinavian calm. In short: a true New England mix. Read more about our love of restoring and designing historic homes in New England.